This study suggested that while the data did not show generalized
negative effects, neither did they show positive behavioural changes.

What then are the effects of imprisonment? On one level, we can
say that prison is a unique environment, but one within the range of ordinary
human experience, so its effects are as varied as those of any major life
change on a disparate group of individuals. Some [inmates] sink into depression
and hopelessness, while others feel comfortable, contented, or even happy. From
our results we can say that most fall somewhere in between, coping day by day
and minute by minute, and surviving intact and more or less unchanged (Zamble
& Porporino, 1988, p.152).

Despite that negative effects of imprisonment were not clearly
demonstrated, researchers warned that the study findings should not be used as
an endorsement of incarceration. Some inmates experienced emotional problems
well into their sentences, partly as a result of a deliberate self-imposed
psychological isolation. There is a need for further research to identify these
individuals and what makes them react differently so help can be arranged. The
researchers also suggested that while the emotional problems experienced
initially by most inmates were temporary, more resources for treatment should
be made available.

Because women make up only 2.6% of the long term inmate population in Canada
(women account for 179 of the 7,004 long term prisoners)(Task Force on Long -
Term Offenders, 1998), the tendency until very recently has been to focus
research primarily on the behaviour and needs of male inmates. In Canada, the
emergence of the feminist perspective in the understanding of social inequity
and the recognition of the special needs of female offenders led to the
appointment of the Task Force on Federally Sentenced Women in 1990. This group
of corrections officials, other representatives of the justice system and
community members studied the experiences of female federal inmates and made
recommendations as to how the CSC could better manage these women. The Task
Force produced a report that was a cooperative effort on the part of the
Correctional Service of Canada, the Elizabeth Fry Society and Aboriginal
women's groups. In their report, some insights into the effects of both long
and short term incarceration on female inmates was provided.